Keyport 717 documents

KEYPORT 717"™
DATA SHEET

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KEYPORT 717 with the “BASIC PROGRAMMING OVERLAY”.

KEYPORT 717 PROGRAMMER OVERLAY

POLYTEL

Computer Products Corp.

“PROGRAMMER OVERLAY” showing all 717 programmable keys.

POLY TEL

Computer Products Corp.

KEYPORT 717 — GENERAL INFORMATION

WHAT IS THE KEYPORT 717?

The KEYPORT 717 is a flat, membrane keyboard containing 717
user programmable keys. Each application program uses a dif-
ferent flexible plastic overlay to display the active keys. A typical
application uses between 150 and 300 keys. Unused keys do not
appear on the overlay. The function of each key is indicated on
the overlay by words, symbols or pictures printed on and around
the key itself. Each command has its own key, so the user does
not have to learn a language or respond to menus. In effect, the
KEYPORT overlay is a permanent master menu showing all
available commands and functions in the application.

The active surface of the KEYPORT 717 measures 9” by 22”. It
connects to most personal computers through the game port. It
does not need an interface card, and does not disable the stan-
dard alpha-numeric keyboard. The KEYPORT and the standard
keyboard may be used simultaneously to enter commands and
data. The KEYPORT uses neither a power supply nor discrete in-
tegrated circuits. It can be connected to the computer by as few
as 4 wires, and can be located up to 200 feet from the computer.
Since the KEYPORT has no moving parts, spilled liquids, dust,
or dirt do not affect it.

WHY BUY THE KEYPORT?

a. User-Friendly! Users can see, select, and enter commands
without refering to the application manual. Complex com-
mands and menus are reduced to the touch of a single key.
Users can enter data faster and more accurately.

b. Programmer-Friendly. Programming is simplified by
eliminating menus and syntax analysis. You can develop an
application faster while using less memory.

c. Low cost. The KEYPORT costs less per key than any other
available keyboard.

d. Since the KEYPORT has no moving parts nor IC’s it is
reliable. It is light, yet rugged. It is easily mounted on a wall,
a desktop, a machine, or anywhere. Without the case it is
less than 1/10th of an inch thick. It requires fewer wires and
connecting pins than a conventional keyboard.

e. Enhances copyright protection. The full color plastic overlay
is far more difficult to duplicate than a diskette, and is easier
to copyright.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Pressing a key changes two electrical resistances in the
KEYPORT between the Input line and X and Y Ouput lines. The
computer then polls the KEYPORT by sending it a ONE or a
ZERO on the Input line and monitoring the X and Y lines for the
return signal. The KEYPORT circuit delays the signal by an
amount proportional to the X and Y coordinate of the key. By tim-
ing the return of the signal, the computer identifies the key.
The decoding circuits containing the resistors are printed on
pieces of polyester film which are then laminated together. This
membrane “’sandwich’’ uses thick-film technology to create a
giant integrated circuit containing the individual circuit elements.
The key-reading routine, stored in the computer’s memory,
features a table with data about each key, the KEY DATA TABLE
or KDT. The KDT includes the functions, commands, words, or
single characters assigned to each key. It tells the program what
to do when a key is pressed. The KDT allows the computer to
perform the desired functions with a single keystroke, without
using menus or language analysis. A new KDT is loaded with
each program, so different keys can have different meanings
in different programs. Changing the KEYPORT overlay
changes the visual key pattern so that it corresponds to the
functions in the KDT.

KEYPORT UTILITIES

It is not necessary to be a programmer to use the KEYPORT with
packaged applications like THE FARM or VisiCalc.® In fact, pre-
school children can control the screen with THE FARM, and first
time users can quickly generate spread sheets with VisiCalc.
However, for those who wish to design a keyboard layout for a
new or existing program, the necessary tools are provided with
each KEYPORT. These tools include utility programs to define
keys, build the KEY DATA TABLE, and link it to your program.
Suggestions are included to make the new keyboard designs
user-friendly. See HOW TO DESIGN A KEYPORT OVERLAY
below for a summary of the steps required to design a
keyboard layout.

In addition to software tools, blank Programmer Overlays are
included with each unit. The Programmer Overlay indicates in
light blue the location of each of the 717 potential key centers. A
programmer can draw the desired keys, in color, around any of
the 717 key centers. After the keys have been defined and ac-
tivated with the utility software, the key layout can be tested with
the application program for ease of use, errors, and omissions.
When the design is working to the programmer’s satisfaction,
the overlay can be printed in quantity on plastic film for distribu-
tion, or plotted on film for more limited use. Polytel’s Customer
Application Department will assist in the preparation of plotted or
printed overlays, for a nominal charge.

INTERFACING AND SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

The KEYPORT comes with cable and connector for the Apple Il,
ll+, or lle. It plugs into the Apple Game I/O port. Minimum
system requirements are 48K and a 16 sector disk drive. No
interface card is needed.

The KEYPORT can also be interfaced to most popular personal
computers, including the Tandy Color Computer, TI-99/4A, IBM-
PC and others. Packaged applications are available only for the
Apple at this time. Polytel will provide the information required to
interface the KEYPORT to other machines.

PACKAGED APPLICATIONS

1. BASIC Programming Overlay

The BASIC Programming overlay includes keys for all AppleSoft
BASIC and DOS commands plus features like AUTO-LINE
NUMBER, four-directional, non-destructive cursor for editing,
AUTO-REPEAT for all keys, user definable keys, color keys,
and more.

2. VisiCalc Programming Overlay

The VisiCalc overlay includes all VisiCalc commands and func-
tions plus a four-directional cursor, printing macros, user
definable keys, and a screen memory map on the keyboard for
positioning the cursor with a single stroke. The VisiCalc program
from VisiCorp must be purchased separately.

3. THE FARM

THE FARM is an exciting children’s educational program about
animals and life on a farm. With this overlay and diskette,
children from 2 to 10 years old can play games, ask questions,
and even write their own stories about the farm. The overlay
shows pictures of farm objects and animals.

PROGRAMMING THE KEYPORT 717

INTERACTIVE PROGRAMMING

The Problem: Menus or Syntax?

Most interactive programs are either menu driven or command
driven. The user tells the program what to do by choosing from a
menu of functions, or by learning the syntax of a command
language and typing in the commands on a typewriter-like
keyboard. Neither technique is entirely satisfactory. Menus re-
quire tedious programming, use a substantial amount of
memory, and increase the program’s overall response time. If
they have to be sent through telephone networks, menus often
consume more transmission time than the actual data, increas-
ing connect-time charges.

Command syntax is more efficient, but is harder to program.
Command languages require the user to spend non-productive
time learning the command language and constantly checking
the reference manual for spelling, punctuation, and rules. Multi-
ple keystrokes introduce a greater possibility for error.

The Answer: Neither!

By using the KEYPORT and designing your own keyboard
overlay for a specific application, you can eliminate both menus
and syntax analysis. You can create an excellent interface be-
tween the application and the end user.

HOW TO DESIGN A KEYPORT OVERLAY

1. Make a list of all possible commands and functions used by
the program or application. These commands might be:

“Print Customer List’’

“Set Timer to Turn on Lights”’

“Load Balance Sheet”

“Play Note C#”

“Display Animation Sequence”

“Paint Shape with Color Orange”’

“Display List of Files on Disk 2”

2. Add to the list any frequently used combinations of com-
mands. For example, TEXT:HOME:LIST is used frequently in
BASIC to:

a. Change screen from GRAPHIC to TEXT mode

b. Clear the screen, and

c. List the BASIC program to the screen.
These three commands require 15 keystrokes on a normal
alpha-numeric keyboard. By replacing them with one key on the
KEYPORT you can save 14 strokes every time the program is
listed from graphic mode.

3. Group commands according to a logical scheme for the
application, and assign a function number to each group. For
example, one group might contain all commands for changing
the color of an object on the graphic screen.

4. Assign a KEYPORT key to each command or sequence of
commands. Keep the logical groups together. Make big keys for
frequently used commands, so that the user can find them
quickly. With a pencil, crayon, or colored felt-tipped pen (alcohol
based ink works best), draw the keys you want on the Program-
mer Overlay provided with the KEYPORT. Print the name of
each command on a key, with a short explanation if needed.
Choose as many keys as needed and locate them anywhere on
the overlay. You can even assign two different keys to the
same function.

5. Using the KEYPORT utility software, define each key by

simply pressing the key you have drawn and entering its function
number and commands. Any keys not assigned are ignored. The
KEYPORT utility creates a KEY DATA BLOCK for each key. The
table of KDBs is called the KEY DEFINITION TABLE, or KDT.

6. Link the KEY DEFINITION TABLE to your program using the
KEYPORT utility software.

7. To run the program, fasten the overlay to the KEYPORT.
Enter the commands and data by pressing keys on the
KEYPORT.

When a key is pressed, the KEY DATA BLOCK and its function
number are passed to the program. The program then branches

-directly to the appropriate subroutine.

DESIGN SUGGESTIONS

1. Make the functions of keys easy to understand. Use legends,
symbols, sketches, etc.

2. Use different colors for different groups of keys.

3. Test the program to see if the layout is easy to use. Have
someone who is not familiar with the application try to use it with
nothing but the overlay for instruction. Add keys for any missing
functions or sequences. Enlarge useful keys. Add explanations
to the keys or key groups if needed.

4. When your program and overlay are finished and working
well, print the overlay on plastic sheets for sale or distribution
with the program.

BENEFITS TO THE USER

A user can run an application productively with little (or no)
instruction and without learning and typing commands. For the
experienced user this means up to 80% less time spent on a job.
For the first time user, it means getting productive output from a
new application much sooner and with far less frustration.

BENEFITS TO THE PROGRAMMER

The KEYPORT makes a programmer’s job easier by eliminating
both menus and command syntax analysis. The KEYPORT also
enhances your copyright protection, since both hardware and
software are required to run your application.

VisiCalc is a trademark of Visicorp.
Apple II, Apple li+, Apple lle are trademarks of Apple Computer Inc.

POLY TEL

Computer Products Corp.
2121 S. Columbia, Suite 500
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74114
[918] 744-9844
Out of State Call
1-800-331-4411

KEYPORT 717™ VISICALC® DATA SHEET

The KEYPORT 717 is an advanced technology membrane
keyboard with 717 fully programmable keys. It plugs directly
into the game socket of the Apple II, 11+ and Ile computers.
The KEYPORT 717 can be configured for different applications
by the use of overlays. KEYPORT 717 utility software allows
you to develop your own applications on the KEYPORT 717.

VISICALC INTERFACE

The KEYPORT 717 VisiCalc Interface Diskette with Overlay has
been programmed to generate all VisiCalc commands with single
keystrokes for each command. Other useful functions like
SCREEN PAGE SELECTION and USER DEFINED KEYS
have been added to the VisiCalc Overlay. Since all commands
are displayed on the overlay, the user has less need of the
reference manual. Program response time is faster too, because
execution takes place immediately after one keystroke, instead of
following the one or more menu displays and multiple Reyes
required by VisiCalc with a standard keyboard.

HOW TO USE

Calibrate your keyboard using the procedure INSTALLING
AND CALIBRATING THE KEYPORT, found on the back of
this DATA SHEET. Put the VisiCalc Overlay on the KEYPORT
and boot the KEYPORT VisiCalc Interface Diskette. Then boot
your standard VisiCalc Diskette from VisiCoyp._ “You can enter
any VisiCalc command without having to refnember the syntax,
because every key has a clear label telling you what it will do.
Special combined commands have also beén defined as keys. For
example, a single key generates a sequence equivalent to /---».
allowing you to fill a cell with - and move to the next cell. This «
feature is very powerful when you underline titles. With a single
stroke, you can split the screen horizontally or vertically,
synchronize windows, fix titles, jump between windows, delete
rows and columns, and much more.

PRINT COMMANDS
A powerful example of the value of a combined command is the
PRINT PAGE key. This key generates the string of characters
necessary to send one page of the spreadsheet to the printer.
Without this key you would have to:

* Move the cursor to the top left corner of the section you
want to print

* Enter the print command

+ Enter any set-up commands required by your printer

* Enter the lower left coordinate of the section

* Press RETURN

SCREEN PAGE SELECTION

A very helpful feature of the VisiCalc Overlay is the SCREEN
PAGE SELECTION. By pressing a single key you can go
immediately to any screen page of the spreadsheet. You can
select one special page for all the input parameters of your model
and another for the results. To enter the input parameters, select
the “input parameters” page, enter the parameters, then select
the “main results” page to see the output before you print the
whole spreadsheet.

KEYPORT 717™ VISICALC © DATA SHEET

USER DEFINED KEYS

You can define the white keys on the VisiCalc Overlay to
generate any combination of commands, up to 250 characters for
each key. The VisiCalc Overlay uses 227 keys for the different
VisiCalc commands and the USER DEFINED KEYS, plus 59
typewriter keys. The maximum table length is 3984 characters.

DEFINING USER KEYS

You can redefine any of the KEYPORT keys to meet the special
requirements of your application. We suggest you do not change
any of the VisiCalc command or function keys since they have
been specially defined to work with your VisiCalc. Before you
begin, decide what characters you want each key to output when
you press it.

You can not define keys while using VisiCalc. Get out of
VisiCalc by pressing QUIT VISICALC. Then select menu option
2 for DEFINE BOARD.

The following are the names of the VisiCalc Key Definition
Tables (KDTs) and the configurations in which each is used.

VISI40BTAB is loaded if you have an Apple II or II+. It is
also loaded if you have an Apple Ile and are using Visicalc™
software for the Apple II and II+.

VISI80BTAB is loaded if you have an Apple Ie with an 80-
column card and using Visicalc software for the Apple Ile.

VISI84BTAB is loaded if you have an Apple Ile without an 80-
column card and you are using Visicalc™ software for the Apple
Ile.

To modify the KDT follow the procedure Defining A Board as
described in the Programmer Reference Manual, loading the
KDT name that corresponds to your configuration when
prompted for “BOARDNAME”. Note: BTAB is appended
automatically, so just enter VISI40, VISI80 or VISI84.

When finished, SAVE your new KDT under a new name, then
reboot. Use menu option 3 to LOAD your new KDT.

HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE REQUIRED
To use the KEYPORT VisiCalc Overlay you need:

* Apple I, II+ or He with 48K and a single 16 sector disk
drive

¢ KEYPORT 717

* VisiCalc® software from VisiCorp

The VisiCalc Interface package contains the VisiCalc Overlay
and VisiCalc Interface Diskette.

VisiCalc is a trademark of Visicorp.

USER DEFINED KEYS

Prints 8 columns

These keys can be defined by you, the user. Each USER
DEFINED KEY can be defined as a string of characters. See the
procedure DEFINING USER KEYS for the instructions for
setting up your own special KEYPORT keys. Although you can
redefine all of the keys on this KEYPORT, we recommend you
do not change the keys with the printed labels.

Sets up a Print to Disk file. Enter the Fil
right coordinate of the file.

Initially these keys are defined as:

LOAD LOAD LOAD LOAD LOAD LOAD
PF1 PF2 PF3 PF4 PFS TASK 1

LOAD LOAD LOAD LOAD ZERO LOAD
PF6 PF7 PF8 PF9 TASK 1 Os

Prints 8 columns, 9 characters wide and 60 lines long from A61 to H120.

Erases the current character and moves the cursor back one
position. Functions like the ESC key.

(SET SET |
HORIZONTAL || VERTICAL Gniows poCK UE
WINDOW WINDOW \ y, range)

SYNCH. UNSYNCH. CANCEL
WINDOWS WINDOWS WINDOWS

FIX FIX
| HORIZONTAL VERTICAL
TITLES TITLES
FIX CANCEL
HORIZONTAL TITLE LOCAL
& VERTICAL |e FIXATION

LOCAL

DELETE fl
CHARACTER,

LOCAL

MOVE {) INSERT DELETE

ROW | ROW ROW ee

MOVE INSERT || DELETE
COLUMN COLUMN COLUMN

This key can be redefined
template for creating a 5”
Sheet and Cash Flow.

These keys can be redefined by the user. Currently, loads the file
you saved named PF1, PF2, PF3, etc. These files can be
regular VisiCalc files, DIF files or Print to Disk files.

This key can be redefinec
screen template containin,
projection without the Ba
If you just want to make |
faster than TASK1.

This key can be redefined by the user. Currently, zeros out the 5

year projection (TASK1) input variables so new calculations can
be entered.

9 characters wide and 60 lines long from Al to H60.

Aborts print command. Functions the same as a CONTROL C.

Name and the lower Print 8 columns, 9 characters wide and 60 lines long from I to P60.

Prints 8 columns, 9 characters wide and 60 lines long from I61 to P120.

These keys can be redefined by the user. Currently, keys | to 6,
11 to 16, 21 to 26, 31 to 36, 41 to 46 and 51 to 56 display one
~ CRT screen of information each.

SEND TO | LINE FEED CONTAOL [7 RETURN /

ESCAPE f ASCH

Returns the cursor to cell A1.

Moves the cursor diagonally.

Moves the cursor in the direction
of the arrow.

by the user. Currently, loads a screen
ear projection of Earnings, Balance

This key can be redefined by the user. Currently, generates / - -
very convenient for drawing underlines.

by the user. Currently, loads the
the 5 year Operating Statement

ce Sheet or Cash Flow information.
| project Operating Statement, it is

Aborts cell entry. Functions like a CONTROL C.

INSTALLING AND CALIBRATING THE KEYPORT

Although the Apple IIe has 2 Game I/O sockets you can only use one at a ~
time. Your KEYPORT will not work if the Apple Ile has something
plugged into both the internal and external game connectors.

Before you connect the cable or any electrical equipment to your computer,
always be sure the power is OFF. Otherwise, you could destroy a RAM chip
or one of the other ICs.

When you calibrate the KEYPORT, the computer stores the X, Y values of
all the keys of one column and one row. These values are used to identify
any pressed key on the KEYPORT. You must calibrate the KEYPORT the
first time you use a KEYPORT-computer combination.

After you have calibrated, everytime you boot the KEYPORT VisiCalc
Interface Diskette, the calibration data is automatically loaded with the KP
Monitor.

You must have calibration data on every diskette you use with the
KEYPORT.

If you press the wrong keys while calibrating the KEYPORT, you can restart
the calibration by pressing R.

STEP PROMPT PROCEDURE

If your KEYPORT cable has a 9 pin
connector, you can plug it into the rear
panel of the Apple Ile.

Otherwise, position the 16 pin dip
connector over the Game I/O connector
at the right rear of the Apple. Be sure
the notched corner of the connector or
the white dot is toward the front of the

Gently push the pins into the socket
until they are firmly seated.

PRESS: ‘M’
FOR MENU
OR ANY
KEY TO
CONTINUE

Enter M from the keyboard to calibrate
a new KEYPORT-computer
combination.

KEYPORT Enter 1 from the keyboard to run the
MENU Calibration Program.

PRESS KEY] Find the 12th column from the left on

OF Y the KEYPORT. Beginning at the

COORD: bottom row, press each key in the
column. The computer beeps as you
press each key. When you press the top
(18th) key, the computer beeps twice to
let you know it is ready to calibrate the
X coordinates.

PRESS KEY] Find the 9th row from the bottom on

OF X the KEYPORT. Beginning at the left,

COORD: press each key in the row. The
computer beeps as you press each key.
When you press the last (44th) key, the
system saves calibration data onto the
diskette.

PRESS: ‘M’
FOR MENU
OR ANY
KEY TO
CONTINUE

Press any keyboard key except M to
load the VisiCalc Interface.

STEP PROMPT PROCEDURE

PRESS: 1 If you have an Apple Ile version of
FOR 40 VisiCalc (regardless of what machine
COLUMN 2 | you are running on), enter 2 from the
FOR 80 keyboard.

COLUMN

VISICALC Otherwise, enter 1.

INSERT Put your VisiCalc Diskette into your
YOUR drive and press RETURN on the

VISICALC keyboard. The system loads VisiCalc
DISKETTE and displays the VisiCalc screen.
AND PRESS

RETURN

If you want to copy this calibration data onto another disk, use the KP
Monitor Diskette Menu, Selection 3.

USING THE DEMONSTRATION TEMPLATE

Input your Operating Page Selection 10. Do not put
Statement information information in any cell with *
next to it!

Input your Balance Sheet
information

Page Selection 20. Do not put
information in any cell with *
next to it!

Look at your Operating
Statement

Page Selection 1 and 11.

Look at your Balance Sheet
Assets

Page Selection 21.

Look at your Balance Sheet
Liabilities

Page Selection 31.

Look at your Cash Flow
Statement

Page Selection 41 and 51.

PRINT TO DISK

The VisiCalc Print to Disk is an extremely powerful function.
This function lets you set up a series of commands. When you
LOAD the disk file, VisiCalc executes the commands as though
they were issued from the keyboard. With a Print to Disk file
you can automatically:

Move the cursor from one cell to another
Change the cursor direction

Insert and delete rows and columns

Change the windows, titles or column widths
Put labels and values into cells

Fix ( # ) the values in cells

* Replicate labels, repeating labels and blank cells
« Execute any function preceded by @

¢ Load other VisiCalc and Print to Disk Files

Use the blue SEND TO DISK key on the KEYPORT to set up a
Print to Disk file.

Example

If you want to see an example of a Print to Disk file, LOAD
PFD1. This is the VisiCalc file of the ZERO TASK1 Print to
Disk file.

KEYPORT 717™ BASIC DATA SHEET

KEYPORT 717

NED KEYS

KEYPORT 717 BASIC DATA SHEET

The KEYPORT 717 is an advanced technology membrane
keyboard with 717 fully programmable keys. It plugs directly
into the game socket of the Apple II, I[+ and Ile computers.
The KEYPORT 717 can be configured for different applications
by the use of overlays. KEYPORT 717 utility software allows
you to develop your own applications on the KEYPORT 717.

BASIC INTERFACE

The KEYPORT 717 Basic Programming Diskette with Overlay
has been programmed to generate all the BASIC and DOS
commands with the touch of a single key, and it has many other
very powerful features.

HOW TO USE

Calibrate your board using the procedure INSTALLING AND
CALIBRATING THE KEYPORT, found on the back of this
DATA SHEET. Put the BASIC Overlay on the KEYPORT and
boot the BASIC Diskette. Press any key to enter its command.
For example, if you want to generate CATALOG D2 touch the
CATALOG D2 key on the BASIC Overlay. If you want to
generate the BASIC instruction COLOR = 13 touch the yellow
key in the COLORS section of the low-resolution graphics. You
don’t have to remember that the code for yellow is 13 in lo-res
graphics!

The RETURN & NEW LINE NUMBER key generates a
carriage return and a new line number when you are entering a
BASIC program. You can define the starting line number and the
increment at any time. If you want to edit a program, the 4
golden arrows allow you to move the cursor in ESCAPE mode
in 4 directions.

USER DEFINED KEYS

Any unlabelled key on the BASIC Programming Overlay can be
defined at any time as a string of characters or a sequence of
keys.

ADVANTAGES OF THE KEYPORT BASIC

With the BASIC Programming Overlay, beginners can very
quickly learn both the BASIC language and the Apple II
environment. On the other hand, experienced programmers can
save up to 50% of the keystrokes required to enter and debug
BASIC program lines.

For example, when developing a graphics application, the
TEXT:HOME:LIST key allows you to switch from graphics
mode to text mode and list your program with a single keystroke.
This requires 15 keystrokes on the standard alphanumeric
keyboard.

The BASIC Overlay uses 217 keys for the different BASIC and
DOS commands, plus 60 typewriter keys. When the BASIC
Interface is installed, both the KEYPORT 717 and the regular
keyboard can be used.

HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE REQUIRED

To use the KEYPORT BASIC Overlay you need:

* Apple II, I+ or Ile with 48K and a single 16 sector disk
drive
* KEYPORT 717

The BASIC Interface package contains the BASIC Programming
Overlay and the BASIC Interface Diskette.

Apple II, Apple I+, Apple IIe, Applesoft are trademarks of Apple Computer Inc.

YOUR FIRST SESSION WITH THE BASIC
PROGRAMMING OVERLAY

The following examples and tricks will show you the power of
the BASIC Progamming Overlay and help you get started using
your overlay. Remember, if you feel you made a mistake at any
time, press the red CANCEL LINE key and start over. After
installing the BASIC interface as described in INSTALLING
AND CALIBRATING THE KEYPORT, try the following:

Catalog the diskette in Drive |:

* Press CATALOG D1 on the left hand side of the typewriter
section. The contents of the diskette is listed on the screen.

° If the catalog is longer than one page, press RETURN to
display the next page. When the CATALOG is finished, you
get back the AppleSoft prompt ( ] ). Next time you need to
list the files on your disk, touch this key and save at least 7
strokes!

Now let’s do some low-resolution graphics. In the Low

Resolution Graphics section:

* Press GR, the screen clears and is ready to display low
resolution graphics

Press any color key, say the yellow key. The instruction
COLOR = 13 is generated, and you saved 8 keystrokes!

Press VLIN 0,39 AT and enter any number from 0 to 39,
say 22, then press RETURN. A vertical yellow line appears,
and you saved 10 keystrokes.

Press another color key and VLIN 0,39 AT. Enter any
number from 0 to 39 and press RETURN to display another
line of color.

Now let’s display a horizontal line. Press a color key, and
HLIN 0,39 AT. Enter a number, say 22, and press
RETURN. A horizontal line appears.

Now try pressing this series of keys: VLIN (not VLIN 0,39
AT) 5, 10 AT 13 RETURN. A short vertical line appears.

Press PLOT 27 , 32 RETURN. A small box appears on the
screen. With a few simple keystrokes you can draw some
colorful lines and boxes.

What about writing a very simple program to display some lo-res
graphics?

* Press TEXT HOME to the right of the typewriter section
(you just saved 9 keystrokes!). This puts the screen back in
TEXT mode and displays the cursor at the top left corner.

* Press NEW (bottom right of the dark green section) to erase
any current program in memory and get ready for a new
program. Press RETURN to confirm you really want to
enter a NEW program.

Now press the big red RETURN & NEW LINE NUMBER.
This key generates 00010, your first BASIC line number.

Press GR in the low-res section. The first program line sets
the screen to lo-res graphics.

Press RETURN & NEW LINE NUMBER again to generate
line number 20. Press the yellow key. Line 20 sets the color
to yellow.

Press RETURN & NEW LINE NUMBER to generate line
30. Press VLIN 0,39 AT 22 RETURN. You have just
entered a small program with a few key-strokes.

Now press TEXT:HOME:LIST on the right hand side of the
typewriter section. The program is listed on the screen.

When you press RUN CURRENT PROGRAM on the left hand
side of the typewriter section the program is executed and you
see the yellow line on the screen. If you want to edit your
program:

¢ Press TEXT:HOME:LIST to go back to the program, then
press RETURN & NEW LINE NUMBER to generate more
instructions in your program. Press another color key to
change the color.

* Then press RETURN & NEW LINE NUMBER , HLIN
0,39 AT 22 RETURN.

* Now press RUN CURRENT PROGRAM . Two lines are
displayed on the screen. Keep switching from RUN
CURRENT PROGRAM to TEXT:HOME:LIST and adding
new lines to your program. Remember, you are saving
hundreds of keystrokes in the process!

Suppose you want to modify line 30 and make it VLIN 0,39 AT
33 instead of 22:

* Press TEXT:HOME:LIST then use the Up golden arrow
until you reach line 30. Use the Left golden arrow to go to
the start of line 30.

Use the brown RIGHT arrow on the typewriter section to
move the cursor until you reach the first 2 in 22. Type 33
then press RETURN.

Always use the golden arrows to go to the very beginning of
the line you want to edit, then use the typewriter arrows to
move along the line you are editing. Type in the corrections,
use the small brown arrows to go to the very end of the line
and press RETURN.

The KEYPORT has 2 types of predefined keys: number each time it is pressed.

. Another example is the Function Key LINE START . This key * This k
: Character String Keys does not output any characters, but it prompts you to enter the as PR
Einetios Mnys Starting Line Number for the automatic line numbering feature. KEYP

Character String Keys always output the same characters. All of the keys can be redefined using the DEFINE BOARD
Function Keys either perform a specific function or output a program. See your KEYPORT 717 Programmer Reference
different set of characters each time they are pressed. The Manual.

function keys described on this page are marked with an

asterisk ( * ).

You can define any of these KEYPORT keys during a BASIC
For example, the Character String Key RETURN outputs programming session. Each USER DEFINED KEY can be
the same code (a carriage return) every time the key is defined as a string of characters or a sequence of KEYPORT

pressed. The Function Key RETURN & NEW LINE keys. See the procedure DEFINING USER KEYS for

NUMBER outputs a carriage return and a different line instructions.

* These keys can be redefined by the user. Currently, they generate
lo-res colors, COLOR = i where i is the Apple color code.

Displays the 16 lo-res colors on the screen in the same order as
they are printed on the KEYPORT Overlay. Use this key to
adjust your color monitor or television.

KEYPORT 717

LOW RESOLUTION GRAPHI
USER DEFINED KEYS ;

Define Define
Character
String

* Lets you load a —
specific set of USER FF Definition
DEFINED KEYS.

The system prompts

you for the Board

Name.

Reaeeane
LOMEM: «

aheeeae
aaeneue
HIMEM:«

* Lets you save a set
of USER DEFINED
KEYS after you | o oe See ee Cie ak
have defined all the | Eset ee ; STEP x7 1 ONE REM CAL
keys you want to use ee aneuaes nasesee
with a particular : a Fe ee eg |

application. +) } aaeee penn i Haale de oi R2neuee ay) sone

aeeenee
1.Ge

}

bee Page Pet

Currently not
defined.

* Uses Auto Line Number to complete th
up next program line number. Line Nun
be set up using LINE NUMBER STAR

NUMBER STEP keys.

This key can be redefined by the user. Currently, it tests to see if
either a KEYPORT or keyboard key has been pressed.

* Lists the entire program. If you o1

* This key can be redefined by the user. Currently, of the program, use LIST X,Y.
it RUNs the SINE WAVE program. Moves the cursor in the direction indicated. The > and

function the same as the corresponding keys on the keyboard.

The t and | function like ESCAPE D and ESCAPE C.

y can be redefined by the user. Currently, it is defined
1. After using PR#1, press RESET to relink the
RT BASIC Interface.

=

y can be redefined by the user. Currently, it runs the sine agai Pyhtere 15s apple-calereode ds
IR BOX program. g Eases

If either a KEYPORT or keyboard key has been pressed, this key
This key can be redefined by the user. Currently, it runs the stops the program.

BOUNCING BALL program.
Tests to see if a keyboard key has been pressed.

* This key can be redefined by the user. Currently, it sets up Auto

Line Number to start at 10 and step by 10, then generates NEW
to clear any programs from memory. Press RETURN to clear the
memory. Press CANCEL LINE to abort the NEW command.

Currently not defined.

* This key can be redefined by the user. Currently, it changes
the screen to TEXT mode, clears the screen and LISTs the
BASIC program currently in memory.

SORE RHR ROR Ee BERK eR RHR ee
we

ONT Re TEOtD. BC NOTaAGE See Eta : (aay er cap | Sets the text window to 33 columns. Use this command to edit
eee reaneas as | uh pre program lines without inserting extra blank spaces in PRINT and

Mintle oe 1a are z a DATA statements.

Resets the text window to 40 columns.

Moves cursor in the direction of the arrow. Equivalent to

ESCAPE A, ESCAPE B, ESCAPE C and ESCAPE D.

Generates a CONTROL C and RETURN. Stops execution of
the program and returns to the AppleSoft BASIC prompt.

Generates a CONTROL X and cancels the remainder of the line.

* Allows you to enter the line number increments used with

RETURN & NEW LINE NUMBER.

PROGRAM

current line and set
er Start and Step can
and LINE

% Allows you to enter the Start Line Number used with

RETURN & NEW LINE NUMBER.

aE Tee SE ett Ties * Cancels a program listing. Works only when scrolling is in progress.
* Stops listing of the program. This key and the RESUME . _
LISTING key function like the CONTROL S switch. * Continues listing a program after pressing STOP LISTING.

When you are satisfied with your program, you can save it on
disk:

* Press SAVE X on the left hand side of the typewriter
section.

* Type MYPROGRAM then press RETURN. Your program is
saved on disk under the name MYPROGRAM.

To load and run your program from disk:

* Press LOAD X on the left hand side of the typewriter
section.

* Type MYPROGRAM then press RETURN. Your program is
loaded from disk into memory.

* Press RUN CURRENT PROGRAM and your program is
executed.

* Press TEXT:HOME to go back to TEXT mode.
* Press RUN X on the left hand side of the typewriter section.

* Type MYPROGRAM then RETURN. Your program is
automatically loaded and executed again.

You can also define some of the User Defined Keys. When
testing a program, you will probably have to load and save it
often. You can define a couple of the User Defined Keys to save
and load MYPROGRAM:

* Press DEFINE CHARACTER STRING
* Press the top left white key
* Type LOAD MYPROGRAM

* Press END OF DEFINITION. Now you can load
MYPROGRAM with a single keystroke

* Now press DEFINE CHARACTER STRING
* Press the bottom left white key

* Type SAVE MYPROGRAM

* Press END OF DEFINITION

Now, when you touch either of these 2 white keys you will
LOAD MYPROGRAM or SAVE MYPROGRAM. Press
RETURN and the command is executed immediately. You save
13 keystrokes everytime you LOAD or SAVE the program.

You can save the key definitions you just made by pressing the
red SAVE BOARD, typing any name, then pressing RETURN.
To load these definitions later, press LOAD BOARD, enter the
board name and press RETURN. Try it NOW!

You can also use the SAMPLE program BSAMPLE with this
overlay:

Detach the small overlay provided in the KEYPORT 717
Programmer Reference Manual. (last page)

Tape the overlay so the bottom left key coincides with the
bottom left white key of the User Defined Keys

Press LOAD BOARD, then type BSAMPLBTAB and press
RETURN

Press RUN X then type BSAMPLE and press RETURN.

Use the eight arrows of the MOVE & PLOT section to plot
the cursor on the screen and the other eight arrows to move
the cursor without plotting

Touch any color key in the USER DEFINE section to
change the cursor color

Press SAVE PICTURE . Then type any name and_-press
RETURN to save the picture

Press CLEAR SCREEN to clear the screen

Press LOAD PICTURE and the picture name to load a
picture

And now try this!
* Press DEFINE KEY SEQUENCE

* Press the first white key from the right on the top row (this
key is on the plastic overlay)

* In the MOVE & PLOT section, press the arrows to move
down, down, left, left, up, up, right, right

¢ In the MOVE CURSOR section, press the right arrow to
move 5 times

* Press END OF DEFINITION

* Now press the top right key. It draws a small square, by
repeating the key sequence you’ve just entered. Lets call this
the BOX key.

To enhance your graphic further:

* Press DEFINE KEY SEQUENCE

Press second white key from the right on the top row
Press PINK key

Press the BOX key you defined above

Press the LIGHT GREEN key

Press the BOX key again

Press END OF DEFINITION

Now press the key you just defined. It draws 2 colored
squares, one pink and one green. You can repeat this process
and draw nice lo-res shapes with very few key strokes!

INSTALLING AND CALIBRATING THE KEYPORT

Although the Apple Ile has 2 Game I/O sockets you can only use one at a
time. Your KEYPORT will not work if the Apple Ie has something
plugged into both the internal and external game connectors. Before you
connect the cable or any electrical equipment to your computer, always be
sure the power is OFF. Otherwise, you could destroy a RAM chip or one of
the other ICs.

When you calibrate the KEYPORT, the computer stores the X, Y values of
all the keys of one column and one row. These values are used to identify
any pressed key on the KEYPORT. You must calibrate the KEYPORT the
first time you use a KEYPORT-computer combination. After you have
calibrated, everytime you boot the KEYPORT BASIC Interface Diskette,
the calibration data is automatically loaded with the KP Monitor. You must
have calibration data on every diskette you use with the KEYPORT.

If you press the wrong keys or the KEYPORT hangs up while calibrating,
you can restart the calibration by pressing R. .

If your KEYPORT cable has a 9 pin
connector, you can plug it into the rear
panel of the Apple Ile.

Otherwise, position the 16 pin dip
connector over the Game I/O connector
at the right rear of the Apple. Be sure
the notched corner of the connector or
the white dot is toward the front of the
Apple.

Gently push the pins into the socket
until they are firmly seated.

Boot your KEYPORT BASIC
Interface Diskette.

PRESS: ‘M’ Enter M from the keyboard to calibrate
FOR a new KEYPORT-computer
MENU OR combination.
ANY
KEY TO
~ CONTINUE

(1) RUN Enter 1 from the keyboard to run the
CALIBRATE | calibration program.

ANY OTHER

KEY TO

CONTINUE

PRESS KEY | Find the 12th column from the left on

OF X the KEYPORT. Beginning at the

COORD: bottom row, press each key in the
column. The computer beeps as you
press each key. When you press the top
(18th) key, the computer beeps twice to
let you know it is ready to calibrate the
X coordinates.

PRESS KEY | Find the 9th row from the bottom on

OF Y the KEYPORT. Beginning at the left,

COORD: press each key in the row. The
computer beeps as you press each key.
When you press the last (44th) key, the
system saves calibration data onto the
diskette.

PRESS: ‘M’ Press any keyboard key except M to
FOR MENU load the BASIC interface. The system
displays the AppleSoft BASIC prompt.

CONTINUE

If you want to copy this calibration data onto another disk, use the KP
Monitor Diskette Menu, Selection 3.

DEFINING USER KEYS
Types Of User Keys

When you set up the USER DEFINED KEYS, you can have the
KEYPORT either output a string of characters or a sequence of
KEYPORT keys.

For example, if your program prints consecutive lines of text,
define a key sequence as

“: PRINT RETURN & NEW LINE NUMBER PRINT”

Enter your first line of text up to but not including the final
quote. Press the key you just defined. With a single key you’re
ready to enter the next line of text. Try it!

Hidden Keys

Although we have pictured 16 USER DEFINED KEYS on the
overlay, all of the hidden key centers on this part of the
KEYPORT can be defined. Any key in this area you do not
define does nothing when pressed.

Key Capacity
All of the USER DEFINED KEYS are not the same. To give you
more usable memory, we have given each row of keys a different
capacity:

* The top row can have a maximum string length of 60
characters or a maximum sequence of 27 keys

* The 2nd row can have a maximum string length of 40
characters, or a maximum sequence of 17 keys

* The 3rd row can have a maximum string length of 25
characters, or a maximum sequence of 10 keys

* The 4th row can have a maximum string length of 20
characters, or a maximum sequence of 7 keys

* All other key locations in the user defined section can have a
maximum string length of 9 characters or a maximum
sequence of 2 keys

STEP PROMPT PROCEDURE

DEFINE DEFINE
Press KEY or CHARACTER
2: PRESS KP
KEY

SEQUENCE ~~ STRING
ENTER SET

OF KEYS

Press the USER DEFINED KEY you
want to use.

If you are defining a character string,
enter the characters you want this key
to output including any carriage
returns. Use the KEYPORT or
keyboard to enter the characters.

If you are defining a key sequence,
enter the set of characters or keys you
want this key to output. You can use
any key on the KEYPORT. The system
displays ACCEPTED after every key.

Press END OF DEFINITION.

ACCEPTED
OR
COMPLETED

The system has accepted your definition
of a character string.

The system has accepted your definition
of a key sequence.

Write the description of the key on the KEYPORT using a lead pencil,
felt-tipped marker or grease pencil. Now whenever you want the characters
you entered, simply press the USER DEFINED KEY you defined.

PUY TEL

Computer Products Corp.
2121 S. Columbia, Suite 550

Tulsa, Oklahoma 74114
(918) 744-9844

Dear Customer:

On behalf of the POLYTEL COMPUTER PRODUCTS
CORPORATION, let me congratulate you on the purchase of
your KEYPORT 717. If there are any questions, or if we may
be of any future service to you, please do not hesitate to
call Sherif Danish, Kris Kimbrough, or myself. Our toll
free number is 800-331-4411. In Oklahoma call
918-744-9844,

Please take a minute to fill out the Customer
Information and Warranty form and mail it back to us. This
will allow us to mail you any updated software and notify
you of the availability of any additional programs.

Good luck!

Kevfiin G. Baugess
Marketing Director
POLYTEL COMPUTER PRODUCTS CORP.

KGB:blm

*** HOT LINE 1-800-331-4411 IN OKLAHOMA 918-744-9844 ***
IMPORTANT NOTICE
(READ THIS FIRST - IT MAY SAVE YOU SOME TIME AND TROUBLE LATER. )

1. BACK-UP (COPY) YOUR POLYTEL DISKETTES AND STORE THEM IN A
CLEAN, SAFE, DRY PLACE.

You can make any number of backup copies of each diskette.

2. IF YOUR APPLE HAS OTHER DEVICES CONNECTED TO THE GAME PORT
OR TO THE APPLE KEYBOARD

If your KEYPORT does not work properly when such devices are
attached, call us for assistance.

3. CALIBRATE BEFORE FIRST USE

For the KEYPORT to function correctly, it must first be
"calibrated". A calibration program is provided. See
Programmer's Manual for details.

This "calibration" needs to be done only once for each Keyport-
computer combination. The results of the calibration must be
stored on each Disk containing an application that uses the
KEYPORT. After "booting" the Keyport-monitor diskette, choose
CALIBRATE from the menu. Next, choose CALIBRATION DUPLICATE
and copy your calibration data on each applicatio diskette.

For example, if you have the BASIC application, and THE FARM
application, then you must duplicate the results of calibration
on both the BASIC and THE FARM diskettes.

4. THE KEYPORT MEMBRANE IS VERY SENSITIVE

Do not place or leave any objects (pencils, books, etc.,) on
top of the Keyport membrane. Doing so may cause intermittent
shorts.

5. KEYPORT MONITOR LISTING

The Keyport Monitor source listing is given in the manual to
show you how the Keyport is handled. This code is continudusly
enhanced, while the communication area with your application
program (Page 3 of manual) is unchanged. Therefore, the soutce
code provided on the Keyport Monitor diskette is a text file
under the name KDBLIST could be different from the listing pro-
vided in the Programmer's Reference Manual.

*** HOT LINE 1-800-331-4411 IN OKLAHOMA 918-744-9844 ***

EQUIPMENT LIST

1 KEYPORT 717

2 PROGRAMMER OVERLAYS

1 KEYPORT 717 Monitor Diskette
Programmer's Reference Manual

If BASIC Interface ordered:

._- BASIC PROGRAMMING Overlay
- BASIC Interface Diskette
- BASIC data sheet/user's guide
4

If VisiCalc Interface ordered: .

- VisiCalc Overlay

- VisiCalc Interface Diskette

- VisiCalc data sheet/user's guide
T€) THE FARM Inteface ordered:
~- THE FARM PROGRAMMING Overlay

- THE FARM Interface Diskette
- THE FARM data /sheet/user's guide

CUSTOMER INFORMATION AND WARRANTY FORM

NAME
COMPANY (OPTIONAL)
ADDRESS

PHONE (OPTIONAL)

FROM WHOM DID YOU BUY THE KEYPORT?

DATE VENDOR CITY

WHAT OVERLAYS DO YOU HAVE?

KEYPORT SERIAL NUMBER:

DO YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS ?

MAIL TO: POLYTEL COMPUTER PRODUCTS CORPORATION
2121 S. COLUMBIA, SUITE 550
TULSA, OKLAHOMA 74114

***QUICK GUIDE TO "THE FARM"***

* INSTALLING AND CALIBRATING KEYPORT

First, read the section INSTALLING AND CALIBRATING THE KEYPORT in the
Programmer's Reference Manual.

Boot THE FARM.

Menu will appear on screen. Press 1 if you want to calibrate your
keyport-computer combination. (See INSTALLING AND CALIBRATING in reference manual.)
Otherwise, press any key.

The system will then load THE FARM. This will take about 90 seconds.
* TELL ME

. When THE FARM has been loaded, the words TELL ME will appear ao the screen. At
this time, press any star on the farmyard. A picture, along with the name of that
picture, will appear on the screen.

You can continue to play TELL ME by pressing another star on the farmyard or by
pressing one of the three question keys (purple keys) found under the TELL ME key in
the lower left corner of the overlay.

If you wish to leave TELL ME, do one of the following:

To go to STORYWRITING, first press one of the blue STORYWRITING keys. Then
press YES. The system will then load STORYWRITING in about 15 seconds.

| To go to a game, press any of the orange GAME keys under the heading GAME. You
will then be prompted with a question. If you wish to go to the specified game, then
press YES. The system will then load the appropriate game.

* STORYWRITING

When STORYWRITING is finished loading, a white frame will appear on the screen
with a blinking cursor in the upper left-hand corner of that frame. Now you may do
one of the following:

(1) WRITE A STORY

To write a story, you may use any of the starred Picture keys, a
STORYWRITING key, or a typewriter key. Editing is available by use of the arrows to
go up, down, left or right. The END OF LINE key will allow you to go to the
beginning of the next line.

(2) GET A STORY

Press GET A STORY (blue key). You will then be asked for the title of the
story. Type the story's title using only the typewriter keys. Using other than
letters will be ignored. When you have finished typing the title of the story, press
the END OF LINE key.

A question will then appear asking if title is correct. Press either the
YES or NO keys. If when typing your title you have made a mistake, this is the time
when you can correct the error. During typing of the title, you are not allowed
backspace editing. If an error is made, press END OF LINE. Then press NO and retype

the title. '

(3) SAVE A STORY

Press SAVE A STORY (blue key). Follow tix: title typing directions listed
above under GET A STORY. The system will then save the story on disk and return to
give you a blank screen.

(4) DELETE A STORY

Press DELETE A STORY (blue key). Follow the title typing directions under
GET A STORY. The system will then delete the story from disk.

(5) Display LIST OF STORIES.

Press DISPLAY LIST OF STORY. At this time your present story will be saved
on disk. A current list of saved stores will then appear on the screen. After you
are finished with the list, press any key. At this time the system will reload the
story you had been working on. Always check before saving a story tg make sure that
there are not ten stories already stored on disk.

(6) PRINT CURRENT STORY, STORY TITLES, or ALL STORIES

Press either PRINT CURRENT STORY, PRINT STORY TITLE, or PRINT ALL STORIES.
The system will then ask you if you have a printer. Make sure at this time the
printer is on and ready before pressing the YES key. If you don't have a printer,
press the NO key. The system will print the requested item(s). The screen will then
be cleared and be ready for writing another story.

(7) ‘CLEAR SCREEN

Press CLEAR SCREEN key and answer YES to the question. The present story
will be cleared. Cursor will be in the upper left corner of STORYWRITING frame.

(8) Leave STORYWRITING
To leave STORYWRITING, do the following:
To go to a game, press the appropriate orange GAME key.
To go to TELL ME, press the purple TELL me key.
* GAMES

After GAME has been loaded by system, the name of the game will appear on the
screen. You should then press one of the orange LEVEL keys.

A sequence of pictures or words will then appear on the screen. The number of
pictures to be shown is displayed in the first text line in the lower left corner.
Underneath is displayed a number which is a counter to let you know which picture
you are on.

After the complete sequence of pictures has been displayed, the computer screen
will display either NOW TOUCH or NOW TYPE. At this time you are to either touch the
sequence of pictures or type the sequence of words in the correct order.

There is no editing allowed in the typing games. Press END OF LINE when
finished typing each word.

You are allowed three wrong sequences during a game. If you have not made three
mistakes, you will be shown another sequence.

To leave a game, press either a blue key (STORYWRITING), purple key (TELL ME),
or a orange key (GAME). Press YES if asked a question.

wate

PCILY Fre

Computer Products Corp.

2121 S. Columbia, Suite 550
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74114

POLYTEL

Computer Products Corp.

2121 S. Columbia, Suite S50
Tulsa, Oklahome 74171 4